Cardinals TE Patrick Says He Knew Suspension was Coming

Cards TE Ben Patrick says that he knew a four-game suspension for violating the NFL policy on banned substances was coming, and that he’s ready to deal with it. The suspension was first reported by Adam Caplan of Scout.com, and was going to be handed down eventually by the league office. Patrick was suspended for taking Adderall.

“I’ve had this cloud hanging over my head all offseason,” said Patrick, according to Darren Urban of the Cardinals’ official Web site. “It’s been really hard to come in and smile with the guys, knowing what was going to happen. I’m just going to try to do my best to work hard.”

Patrick, who’s eligible to practice during training camp and play in the preseason games, claims that he ingested the Adderall to remain awake during a drive from Flagstaff to Phoenix during the season. “It was an honest mistake and it wasn’t something that was a recreational use-type thing or a drug or a narcotic. It was simply a mistake on my part. I accept that responsibility.”

Per the report, Patrick’s suspension will run from September 5th to October 12th.